Technical Officer, Global Health Security (GHS)

Job Posting Organization:
FHI 360 is a nonprofit organization that focuses on improving lives through integrated, locally driven solutions in health and development. Established in 1980, FHI 360 operates in more than 60 countries and has a workforce of over 4,000 employees. The organization is dedicated to addressing global health challenges, including HIV/AIDS, maternal and child health, and infectious diseases, through innovative programs and partnerships.

Job Overview:
The Technical Officer for Global Health security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security (GHS) will play a crucial role in supporting the EpiC project, which aims to enhance public health systems in Nigeria. This position involves providing technical and operational support for contact tracing and active case search of priority diseases across several states, including Akwa Ibom, Bauchi, Bayelsa, Lagos, Rivers, and Plateau. The officer will work closely with state epidemiologists and disease surveillance officers to coordinate surveillance activities and ensure alignment with national public health strategies. The role also includes capacity building initiatives, technical assistance, and the design and implementation of GHS strategies to improve outbreak preparedness and response. The officer will be responsible for data gathering, analysis, and sharing among various stakeholders, including the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) and other partners, to enhance disease surveillance and reporting mechanisms.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Technical Officer will be responsible for collaborating with state epidemiologists and disease surveillance notification officers to strengthen surveillance systems, including contact tracing and active case search. Key responsibilities include supporting the collection, analysis, and dissemination of data on emerging infectious diseases, providing technical assistance to state-level stakeholders, facilitating coordination between FHI 360, NCDC, and other partners, developing capacity-building initiatives, monitoring the implementation of surveillance activities, supporting outbreak investigations, and promoting adherence to infection prevention and control measures. The officer will also establish and maintain productive relationships with various stakeholders, including government agencies, NGOs, and international organizations, to enhance collaboration and data sharing.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor's Degree or its international equivalent in fields such as Civil Society, Communication, Health, Nutrition, or related areas. A minimum of 4 years of relevant experience in managing data collection and providing technical assistance is required. Demonstrated experience in emerging infectious disease surveillance activities and familiarity with Nigeria's public health systems and disease surveillance frameworks is essential. Candidates should also have experience in capacity building and knowledge of GHS indicators and activities, as well as familiarity with international donor organizations and NGOs.

Educational Background:
The position requires a Bachelor's Degree or its equivalent in relevant fields such as Civil Society, Communication and Social Marketing, Economic Development, Education, Health, Nutrition, or related disciplines. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of public health and the specific challenges faced in disease surveillance and response.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have at least 4 years of relevant experience in public health, particularly in managing data collection and providing technical assistance. Experience in emerging and re-emerging infectious disease surveillance activities is critical, along with extensive field experience in designing, implementing, and monitoring capacity-building initiatives. Familiarity with Nigerian public health systems and international donor organizations is also important.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, as it is the primary language of communication in the workplace. Knowledge of local languages may be considered an advantage, as it can facilitate better communication with local communities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Lagos State, Nigeria, and may require travel within the country, approximately 10% to 25% of the time. The role is full-time and involves working in a multidisciplinary team environment. FHI 360 is committed to safeguarding and providing a safe environment for all employees and beneficiaries, adhering to principles that protect vulnerable populations from abuse and exploitation. The organization offers a competitive benefits package and emphasizes professional development and work/life balance.